“My biggest problem in golf is lack of confidence. How can I convince myself that I am capable?”
“Confidence has to be the golfer’s greatest single weapon…if he believes he can get the ball into the hole, a lot of the time he will, even if his technique appears to be unorthodox or even downright faulty.” — Jack Nicklaus
Self-confidence is a product of the way you view yourself. If your view of yourself is positive, you feel good about yourself whether you had a good or bad round. Make a point to notice the way you talk to yourself on and off the course. Replace negative thoughts with thoughts that can boost your self-confidence. For example, say to yourself, “I have hit this shot dozens of times before and I can do it again now”, rather than, “I need to hit this shot close for a birdie to make up for the double on the last hole.”
Sit down with a pencil and piece of paper and write down all the qualities that make you a special person. Every day for several weeks read through this list of your good qualities. Every time you catch yourself thinking or talking negatively about yourself, replace that thought with a compliment from your list.
After every round of golf, make a list of all the shots you hit well during your round. Read through the ever-growing list every day for several weeks using imagery to reinforce your memory of these good shots. Strengthen the memory of these shots by complimenting yourself with praise, a fist pump, or a smile to anchor the successful shot into your subconscious mind.
Play “In the Zone” With Joan
Entrain Your Heart & Mind for Peak Performances
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